As a seasoned repairman, I've seen my fair share of home fumbles that could have been avoided with a little bit of prep. It's like using a hammer when what you really needed was a screwdriver - sure, it'll work, but it won't be nearly as effective. The same applies when shopping for blinds. Before whipping out the credit card and making decisions you might regret later, let this old fix-it pro guide you through the hurdles. I assure you, it's as fun as sailing a new ship through unknown waters.
Measure Twice, Cut Once
This old adage rings true for more than just woodwork. With blinds, it's crucial to get your measurements right. Do you want inside or outside mount blinds? Inside mount blinds provide a clean look, but outside mount blinds can make your windows appear larger. Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom; and then the height at both sides and the middle. Always use the smallest width and longest height.
The Ambiance Matters
Do you want to keep the room bright and cheery or are you more about that cozy, dimmed look? The type of material and color you choose plays a big role here. Lighter colors can help a small room feel larger and more airy while darker shades add some depth and coziness.
Also, remember to factor in how much light they will let in. Sheer materials will create a soft, beautiful glow, but if you need complete darkness for a home theatre or a baby’s room, you might want to opt for room darkening or blackout options.
Room Functionality And Privacy
Think about what each room is used for. In your bedroom or bathroom, privacy is pretty important, right? In these rooms, consider blinds which provide a better coverage when closed.
For rooms like the kitchen which are prone to gathering dirt and grease, opt for easy-to-clean materials such as aluminum or faux wood.
Consider Your Climate
You might be wondering, what has weather got to do with your blinds? Well, plenty actually! If you live in a humid climate, steer clear of real wood blinds which can warp. Instead, consider faux wood or aluminum which hold up better in humid conditions.
Budget and Lifespan
Don’t start shopping until you have a budget in mind. It makes no sense falling in love with the most expensive blinds in the shop if they won’t fit into your budget.
Although it's usually better to invest more on quality products that last, you also need to consider how long you intend to stay in your current home and how much use the blinds will get. If it's just a short stint, maybe those top-dollar, custom-made blinds can wait for your forever home.
Keeping Up (Or Not) With The Trends
On the fashion runway of window dressings, some styles are timeless while others are more of a trendy hot flash. Roman and Venetian blinds will likely always be in fashion, while other styles may wax and wane.
Don't worry too much about keeping up with the Joneses, though. Your home, your rules. Choose what you love and what suits your needs and tastes best.
Final Thought: The Fun Of It!
Okay, time to wrap this up. Buying blinds might seem like a complex process and sure it needs some attention and careful consideration. But remember, it also represents an opportunity. The chance to reimagine your space and make it more functional, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing to you. So take the wheel and sail on, my DIY mates! The best course lies not in the destination, but in the journey itself. Happy shopping!